UBC Reports | Vol. 47 | No. 08 | Apr.
19, 2001
Latest update allows students to search for courses by keyword
A major redesign of the UBC Student Services’ Web
site is designed
to enhance the site’s usefulness for students looking to register
for classes,
check schedules and link to on-line resources.
“We’ve redesigned the graphics, look and feel of it,” says Angela Runnals,
director of Communications Services for Student Services, who
helped guide the
redesign.
Since the site debuted in June 1998, it has undergone numerous changes and
updates, but those responsible are especially pleased with the latest changes
since they have been made only after extensive consultations with students.
“Students have told us through surveys and focus groups that they want only
information that is relevant to them,” says Runnals, who says they may have
overwhelmed students in the past with the volume of print
information provided.
“We’ve provided quick links to the highest use services and information for
students such as the academic calendar and registration
information,” says Runnals.
“Students can search for courses by specifying keywords,” adds Audrey Lindsay,
director of Student Systems. “It is something that they could not do
before.”
Lindsay explains that the new course search feature — unveiled this month —
allows students to search on-line for all courses that deal with a specific
subject matter, for example, “linear algebra.”
They can find specific instructors and class times and then register for the
class online. Faculty can also tap into this feature. Users can be assured that
the information is the most current and up-to-date available.
Students’ use of Web registration has steadily risen in the past few years,
Lindsay says.
From June to December, 86 per cent of UBC students used the Web to
register for classes compared to 60 per cent in 1999-2000. This January, 93 per
cent of course changes were completed via the Internet.
Lindsay says that UBC will eliminate Telereg, the
university’s telephone
registration system, June 1. Telephone support service will still
be available
for those who cannot use the Internet.
Runnals says the university has been able to eliminate much of the materials
that they formerly had to mail to students in the past by making services and
resources available on-line.
“We now send students a very brief registration guide — it’s 24 pages compared
to 240 — and direct them to the Web site for more details,” she says.
The site can be found at www.students.ubc.ca.
